This Rare, Clear View Of Alaska Is A Bad Sign

Alaska's south coast is known for being the cloudiest region of
the United States, but a
NASA satellite picture taken on Monday, June 17, provides a
rare, clear view of the state's mountains, rivers, and
forests.

The unusual sight is related to a heat wave currently gripping
the state. Record-breaking temperatures are fueling wildfires and
causing flooding from the breakup of ice in mountain streams.

"The same ridge of high pressure that cleared Alaska's skies also
brought stifling temperatures to many areas accustomed to chilly
June days," NASA wrote.

On the same day this photo was captured, temperatures in the
Alaskan town of Talkeetna hit a sweltering 96 degrees, just two degrees
shy of the highest temperature ever recorded in the state, the AP
reports.